Hey everyone! Today I’m working on a two-page spread in my art journal, using some of my favorite techniques and experimenting with a few new supplies.
As you might know from previous videos, I often start by pre-painting the pages. This time, I’m using a thin layer of gesso applied with my new favorite tool – a silicone brush! It makes spreading gesso super quick and easy. Once the gesso dries slightly, I’m playing around with some KingArt gel sticks I bought on impulse at Walmart. I wasn’t used to them before, but I’m enjoying how they blend over a thin gesso layer.
At this point, I’m not sure exactly what I want to create. It’s more about having fun and experimenting with different supplies. I’m using markers to make random scribbles and texture marks, just playing around with the composition. I want to keep it simple this time, using mostly supplies I have on hand. Everything here – the drawings, and even the stencil – I drew myself or made myself with cardstock. Even with limited supplies, you can create something beautiful!
Speaking of stencils, I’m revisiting a technique I used recently – cutting my own stencil with cardstock. This time, instead of a feathery design, I’m using a bold wavy pattern to block in some solid color at the bottom of the page. It’s a fun way to use acrylic paint, because as the paint dries, it forms a protective layer, almost turning the stencil into plastic. It encourages creativity and lets you experiment with what you have lying around.
I also used a circle paper punch to create little circles scattered around the background. The unbleached titanium white paint is nice and opaque, covering the background well. I decided to keep going and turn it into a bit of a pattern.
Next, I grabbed some acrylic ink and let loose with some drips! It’s all about playtime with supplies today. I didn’t want the drips to bleed onto the other page, so I started a bit lower and spread the ink around with a brush. The light rose pink ink is one of my favorites – so pretty! I’m layering some yellow paint on top, being careful not to smudge the wet ink. I’m also using yellow ochre to tone down some of the black marker lines that felt a bit too bold.
Flowers are the stars of this spread! I used the circle stencil as a loose template for my flower petals. You can definitely freehand them too, I just had fun following a general round shape. I decided to draw the flowers from the side, pointing upwards instead of facing the viewer. I’m using the purple lake paint again, layering it with a mix of purple and white to create highlights and some opacity. I want the flower stems and leaves to blend into the darker area at the bottom where I had the black marker lines.
This spread was a blast to create! It’s bright, cheerful, and full of different colors and textures. The best part of art journaling is experimenting and using what you have on hand. So get out of your comfort zone, try new things, and have fun creating!